RCSD and Healthi Kids Celebrate Level Up Read & Play Day

Who: Dr. Eric Jay Rosser, Superintendent of Schools Rochester dignitaries and on-air personalities 

What: Level Up Read & Play Day

When: Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 

Where: Dr. Iris J. Banister School No. 33 – 10 a.m. (World Read Aloud Day) 500 Webster Avenue, Rochester, NY 14609

The Flower City School No. 54 – 11:30 a.m. (Global Day of Play) 36 Otis Street, Rochester, NY 14606

Details: For the first time, the Rochester City School District, in partnership with Healthi Kids, is combining World Read Aloud Day and Global School Play Day under the Level Up! Read & Play Day initiative.

Students from PreK through 12th grade will have dedicated time during the school day to engage in interactive, hands-on, and meaningful literacy and play experiences.

World Read Aloud Day is celebrated in more than 100 countries, championing literacy and the belief that everyone has the inherent right to learn to read. Several well-known leaders, officials, and community members will participate by reading to students at Schools No. 33 and 54. Across the District, literacy-focused activities will include dramatic reading stations, storytelling corners, puppet shows, and other reading experiences.

Global School Play Day encourages play where students take the lead and create their own learning experiences. Participating schools will offer STEM experiment stations inspired by science books, physical education activities combined with sports-themed read-alouds, and extended recess periods, allowing students to explore, collaborate, and problem-solve through self-directed activities.

Research shows that both play and being read to are necessary for healthy development, supporting social, emotional, and academic growth. These activities help build neural pathways that support lifelong success while providing students opportunities to connect with peers and adults.